Ham is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can elevate the flavor and nutritional value of any dish. Not only does it provide a valuable source of protein, but it also contains essential vitamins and minerals that our bodies require. For those who love ham but struggle to find innovative dinner ideas that feature this meaty staple, fear not! We’ve curated 37 easy and delectable dinner recipes using ham that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re catering to a large family or cooking for one, these recipes will provide inspiration for a meal that’s sure to please.
37 Easy Dinner Ideas Using Ham
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Surprise your taste buds with an unexpected delight – tender chicken breasts wrapped lovingly around ham and melted cheese. As you take each bite, the juicy chicken’s flavors harmonize with the rich, smoky ham in a match made in culinary heaven.
Ham and Pineapple Pizza
Transform the classic flavors of homemade pizza by infusing it with the exotic charm of tropical fusion, combining the salty sweetness of ham with the tangy juiciness of pineapple. This harmonious blend is sure to delight a diverse group of palates, making it an ideal crowd-pleaser.
Glazed Ham
Imagine gathering around the table for a festive holiday feast, and at its center, a show-stopping brown sugar and honey glazed ham that’s equal parts savory and sweet. The allure of this classic dish lies in the harmonious union of the rich, salty ham with the velvety glaze, a match made in culinary heaven. As the aroma of caramelized sugars and toasted spices wafts through the air, your guests will be drawn to its irresistible charm.
Ham and Pea Carbonara
Indulge in the quintessential Italian dish, carbonara, by combining succulent ham and vibrant peas with a rich, velvety sauce. The harmonious union of flavors and textures culminates in a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving for more.
Ham and Potato Hash
Transform a classic breakfast dish into a satisfying dinner option by combining the savory flavors of diced ham and potatoes. Serve it alongside your preferred eggs for a well-rounded and filling meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ham Stroganoff
Savoring the warmth and comfort of Ham Stroganoff, this beloved dish is an ideal choice for a cozy evening in. Consisting of tender ham strips, succulent mushrooms, and a luscious, savory sauce, this pasta delight is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ham Casserole with Broccoli and Rice
Indulge in the perfect blend of savory and rich flavors by creating a mouthwatering casserole featuring the trifecta of ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a velvety Dijon sauce that will leave you craving another bite. Every component harmonizes to create an unparalleled taste experience.
Cheesy Ham Casserole
Comfort food at its finest, a cheesy ham casserole is a masterclass in versatility. This crowd-pleasing dish effortlessly morphs into a personalized delight, courtesy of its ability to seamlessly incorporate your go-to ingredients and leftovers. The result is a satisfying weeknight meal that’s sure to become a staple.
Fried Ham Steak
A hearty and effortless meal, a crispy fried ham steak can be savored at any time of day – whether it’s a morning pick-me-up, a mid-day recharge, or an evening treat. The combination of savory ham and golden-brown crispiness, achieved through a buttery pan-frying process, is sure to warm both your belly and your heart, all in the blink of an eye.
One Pot Ham & Penne
This effortless One Pot Ham & Penne Skillet recipe is a weeknight wonder that cleverly repurposes leftover ham, making it an ideal solution for busy households. By combining pasta, diced ham, and a medley of vegetables with rich broth in a single pot, the dish streamlines cleanup while delivering a savory, filling meal that will win over even the pickiest eaters.
Ham and Bean Soup
Indulge in the cozy delight of a savory soup that wraps you in its warmth, much like a gentle embrace. Combine the rich flavors of ham hocks, creamy beans, and enticing aromas from an array of spices to create a truly comforting culinary experience.
Ham and Cheese Quiche
Transform your mealtime with a scrumptious savory quiche, packed with tender diced ham and pungent sharp cheddar cheese. This classic recipe never fails to impress, making it an ideal choice for both breakfast and dinner gatherings.
Ham Fried Rice
Turn scraps of leftover ham into a mouthwatering fried rice meal by combining it with a medley of colorful vegetables and fluffy scrambled eggs. This innovative approach not only elevates the flavor but also helps minimize food waste, making it an eco-friendly cooking solution.
Asparagus and Ham Pasta Skillet
In the realm of comfort food, few dishes rival the allure of Asparagus and Ham Pasta Skillet. This delectable creation brings together the harmonious trio of asparagus, ham, and pasta in a remarkably straightforward preparation process, yielding a deeply satisfying culinary experience that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ham Fettuccine Alfredo
The quintessential Fettuccine Alfredo with ham is a timeless pasta dish that seamlessly blends creaminess and flavor. While its simplicity belies its versatility, allowing for effortless customization to suit any palate.
Ham and Potato Casserole
Indulge in the warm, fuzzy feeling of a comforting casserole, crafted by carefully layering tender slices of potato, savory ham, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce that wraps around every morsel, transporting you to a place of cozy comfort with each satisfying bite.
Ham and Cheese Calzones
Transforming ordinary pizza dough into calzones, stuffed with savory ham and melted cheese, is an effortless way to create a flavorful Italian-inspired meal that’s both satisfying and fun. The versatility of this dish lies in the ability to customize it with your preferred cheeses, ensuring each bite is filled with a pocketful of deliciousness.
One-Pan Ham and Rice Skillet
For those nights when time seems to be flying by, this delectable one-pan dish is a lifesaver! The harmonious union of smoky ham and fluffy rice, cooked to perfection in a single skillet, ensures a stress-free meal that’s not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. With its flexibility to accommodate various tastes and ingredients, this recipe is a versatile solution for busy weeknights when every minute counts. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes – talk about a time-saving win!
Ham and Egg Burritos
Transform the classic breakfast combo into a satisfying dinner option by wrapping scrambled eggs, crispy ham, and your favorite toppings within the warmth of a tortilla. This unexpected twist on a morning staple is sure to become a family favorite, as it’s a tried-and-true winner in the realm of evening meals.
Ham and Cheese Omelette
Transforming the humble omelette into a culinary masterpiece requires a delicate balance of flavors and textures. One simple yet effective way to elevate this breakfast staple is to incorporate diced ham, whose rich, meaty essence perfectly harmonizes with the creamy richness of melted cheese. As the eggs cook to a fluffy perfection, the subtle interplay between their lightness and the savory ham’s boldness creates a truly satisfying eating experience.
Ham and Potato Soup
Imagine curling up on a crisp autumn evening with a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s packed with flavorful chunks of ham and potatoes. The perfect antidote to the chill outside, this hearty and creamy soup is a treat for the senses.
Ham and Swiss Sliders
Indulge your guests’ cravings with mouthwatering sliders that harmoniously combine the savory flavors of ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a tangy poppyseed glaze. This delightful combination is sure to be a touchdown at any game-day gathering or casual dinner party.
Ham & Spinach Frittata
Elevate your breakfast game by crafting a vibrant frittata that combines the richness of ham with the bright, earthy flavors of asparagus. The harmonious union of these ingredients creates a delightful culinary experience.
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a mouthwatering, one-pepper wonder by filling them with a savory blend of diced ham, cooked rice, and melted cheese. The result is a satisfying, self-contained meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ham and Spinach Pasta
Combine cooked pasta with a medley of flavors – caramelized spinach, savory diced ham, and a rich garlic-infused cream sauce. This effortless weeknight meal is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Ham and Mushroom Omelette
Indulge in a savory breakfast-inspired delight by whipping up an omelette loaded with tender diced ham, earthy sautéed mushrooms, and rich Swiss cheese. The result is a delectable twist on the classic dinner-for-breakfast concept that’s sure to satisfy any appetite.
Ham and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Transforming the humble stir-fry into a satisfying and nutritious meal is as simple as combining thinly sliced ham with a colorful medley of vegetables like cabbage and carrots. The crowning glory of this dish, however, lies in its sweet and savory sauce, which elevates the entire culinary experience to new heights. This quick and easy dinner option is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy meal solution.
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Create a comforting and convenient casserole by layering ham, bread, eggs, and cheese. This make-ahead dish can be easily cooked to perfection in the oven, providing a stress-free dinner solution that’s sure to please.
Ham and Cranberry Panini
Elevate your snacking experience by combining the richness of ham, the tanginess of cranberry sauce, and the creaminess of brie cheese within a crispy panini press. The harmonious blend of flavors will tantalize your taste buds with its sweet and savory essence.
Ham and Broccoli Baked Mac and Cheese
Elevate the humble classic mac and cheese to new heights by incorporating the savory flavors of diced ham and the nutritional benefits of steamed broccoli. The resulting dish is not only indulgent but also packed with nutrients, making it an excellent option for a comforting meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
Ham and Potato Tacos
Elevate the traditional taco experience by crafting your own one-of-a-kind creations featuring diced ham, caramelized potatoes, and a medley of your preferred toppings. This delectable departure from the norm is sure to delight both the young and the young at heart on taco night.
Ham and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform the humble mushroom cap into a delectable bite-sized treat by filling it with a harmonious blend of diced ham and cream cheese. The rich flavors meld together beautifully as you bake them to perfection, resulting in an irresistible appetizer that’s sure to delight.
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Quesadilla
Indulge in the simplicity of a handheld breakfast-for-dinner delight by stuffing flour tortillas with fluffy scrambled eggs, savory ham, and melted cheese. Complete the experience by toasting the combination until it reaches a satisfying crunch, providing a comforting and convenient meal that’s sure to please.
Ham and Swiss Pull-Apart Bread
Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fragrant loaf of pull-apart bread, infused with the rich flavors of diced ham and melted Swiss cheese. This savory delight makes for a perfect centerpiece at your next gathering or family dinner. Simply mix together the dough, layer it with the savory fillings, and let the magic unfold as the aroma wafts through the air.
Ham and Black Bean Quesadillas
To create a flavorful and satisfying dish, start by combining black beans, diced ham, and shredded cheese within the confines of a flour tortilla. Next, cook the tortilla to perfection using your preferred method – whether that’s grilling, pan-frying, or baking. Once cooked, serve the bean-filled tortillas with a side of spicy salsa and a dollop of tangy sour cream to add an extra layer of excitement to each bite.
Ham and Potato Curry
Transform the flavors of India into your kitchen by crafting a mouthwatering curry that combines the savory richness of diced ham and tender potatoes with a vibrant, aromatic spice blend. This hearty dish is ideally paired with a side of fluffy rice or warm, flaky naan bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Ham and Avocado Salad
Pair diced ham with fresh avocado and your favorite greens for a revitalizing dinner salad. For added flair, don’t be afraid to mix in your preferred dressing. This harmonious blend is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.In conclusion, ham’s adaptability and nutritional value make it an exceptional ingredient to incorporate into various meals. Whether you’re looking for a morning meal, a midday repast, or an evening dinner, there’s a delectable ham-based dish waiting to be discovered.With these 37 straightforward yet mouthwatering dinner ideas utilizing ham, you’ll have a vast array of possibilities to explore and relish. The savory and smoky essence of ham can elevate everything from breakfast burritos to comforting casseroles, as well as gourmet-style dishes like stuffed chicken and quiches.Whether you’re catering to a crowd or simply yearning for a cozy evening in, these recipes are sure to become family favorites. So, don your apron, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in the delightful realm of ham-infused dinners!